Ruan Pienaar was the star of the show as Ulster defeated Leicester Tigers 22-19 at Welford Road on Saturday night to book their place in the Heineken Cup quarterfinals.

The South African scored all of Ulster’s points as the 1999 champions secured a home clash with Saracens in the last eight.

Pienaar kicked five penalties and a conversion and also scored the crucial try after charging down a clearance from Leicester fly-half Toby Flood in the 58th minute to level the scores at 19-19.

He then landed the 69th minute winning penalty from inside his own half to seal a famous win for the province.

Captain Johann Muller led the praise for Pienaar and said, “It seems like it’s happening every week, when he scores all the points.

“I came here with him to do kicking practice and he did not miss one all day. He was outstanding and kicked them from 60, 62 meters. From a captain’s point of view it gives you a lot of confidence.

“A huge amount of credit is due to him and it doesn’t just happen. He puts a huge amount of work in, he puts hours and hours into his kicking and it’s wonderful when it pays off.”Ulster topped their pool with six wins from six games and will fancy their chances in the quarterfinals.

“We came here to get a home quarterfinal,” Muller said.

“Sarries totally outplayed us last season. They are a great side and don’t mind going away to get a result.

“It’s two months away and at this stage we will just enjoy the moment. We have not achieved anything yet.”